Lyon – Lorient Preview

Lyon made a great game last round against PSG (drew 1-1). Even if they conceded quite early Lyon didn’t give up and continued to believe in their chance.

Upfront Fekir and Malbranque are very active and their one touch passes disorientate opponents. But of course forward Lacazette is by far the most important player for the offensive phase. Although only 23 he will slowly become an icon for Lyon (if he won’t transfer-out).

Bedimo and Gourcuff returned from injury last round and played about 20 minutes. They could be in the lineup against Lorient, increasing both the defensive and the offensive power.

The only weakness appeared to be in central defense where both Umtiti and Kone are fresh out of injuries. Still, we shouldn’t rush to point fingers especially when they were up against players like Ibrahimovic and Cavani.

Lorient had most of the possession last round against Reims but in the end it was useless as they couldn’t find any solutions to get inside the penalty box (lost 1-0).

Lorient lost many key players this season and as a consequence they have one of the lowest levels of chemistry in Ligue1. Many balls are easily lost in midfield and if by any chance they somehow approach the penalty box, random passes or shooting attempts never find the target.

The defense also looks fragile with important player Lautoa just out of injury and almost no support from the central midfielders.

Lorient need a long period of adjustment and by the time they will start looking like a team it may already be too late.

Lyon shouldn’t have too many problems in controlling this game and imposing the rythm. They may even use more players than usual when attacking as guests’ have limited offensive capabilities and aren’t much of a threat on counters. Lyon -0.75 at 1.98